Gerald Cope: Lessons in architecture as told to me over lunch Hardcover – November 12, 2025

Elliott Curson is a great admirer of Gerald Cope's work, especially since he chose to locate his advertising agency's offices in one of the buildings Cope designed. Years later, Elliott had the opportunity to work on a project with Cope. It became a great friendship. Over the many lunches they had Elliott learned the one key thing that determines if a building is well designed. It's two sentences ― a total of 10 words. Actually, 10 memorable words that once you see them you won't forget. The book is a quick read, and gives a good insight into a man many regarded as the dean of Philadelphia architecture. Buyer beware: This book doesn't show examples of Cope's fine work. It just shows his thinking. Read more